RECYCLE!

Nearly 40% of U.S. trash is paper. American's do recycle about 30% of their paper.

Let's do better, just think about it

Can you put your veggie scraps in your yard waste bin? In some areas you can, check with your local waste collection center

Using Stainless Steel or Glass Instead of Plastic

All plastics are not created equal. Most plastics are made from crude oil. Keep reading to learn the differences between plastics, but here at green living central we believe that overall glass or stainless steal is a much safer way to store your beverages and food. We also believe that stainless steal or glass is a greener way to go.

Plastic contains chemical additives, some of this can leach out and you could consume it through your container. There have been reports that this leaching may increase the risk of birth defects, some hormone related illnesses, such as prostate and breast cancers and may cause developmental delays.

According to a number of university studies, when heating up food in your microwave it is best to avoid plastic containers. Heat can release harmful additives into the food from plastic containers.

Using the dishwasher to clean plastic storage containers may increase the leaching that comes from plastics. You can wash your plastic in warm water to reduce the likelihood of chemical leaching. You might want to avoid using abrasive sponges or harsh cleaners when washing your plastic because scratched plastic can increase the prospects of leaching.

The good green news is that there is a new line of plastics that are called food grade because they are made from starches, such as corn, soy and rice. At Green Living Central we are very excited about these products, they are biodegradable, recyclable and the way that they are produces is generally better for the planet and your health when compared to conventional plastic. There are some concerns with these plastics with regards to pesticides and fertilizers used in these plastics, so look for the organic label.

 

 

There are many different types of plastic containers used for packaging, it is wise to get to know these codes. You can find the codes inside a triangle on the container. This code was developed by the plastics industry to make it easier for recycling centers and it also indicates what type of plastic the containers are made of.

HDPE (high density polyethylene) Sturdy, rigid plastic found in reusable food storage containers, milk and detergent bottles. Generally safe; generally recycled.

LDPE (low density polyethylene) Flexible plastic used for bags or wraps, such as produce bags and baby bottle liners. Most number 4 plastics are not designed for reuse. Generally safe; generally not recycled.

PETE, aka PET (polyethylene terephthalate) Used for most transparent bottles, such as water, soda, cooking oil, and medicine bottles. Generally safe to use (not reuse); generally recycled.

PPE, aka PP (polypropolene) Pliable plastic found in squeeze bottles, reusable food containers, and yogurt and margarine tubs. Generally safe; generally recycled.

PS (polystyrene) Used in rigid take out containers and foam meat trays. Can leach styrene when heated, a possible endocrine disrupter and human carcinogen. Not safe when heated; generally not recycled.

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) Used for plastic wrap, and detergent and cooking oil bottles. Also used for water systems in households. Additives in PVC can increase the risk of birth defects and hormonerelated cancers. Its production can be hazardous to workers and the environment. Generally not safe; not recycled.

Other most often refers to PC (polycarbonate) This plastic is most commonly used for baby bottles, five gallon water jugs, and reusable sports water bottles. I can leach out the hormone disrupter bisphenol A, especially when heated. Because this group can include various other plastics, it has limited recycling potential.

GreeLivingCentral.net chooses stainless steel or glass whenever possible. It may take some time for the change but we are confident that it can happen, one bottle at a time.